The decision to eat organic has become more than a commitment, it’s a rallying cry for health that’s been dropping into shopping carts nationwide. But, buying organic can be more expensive, so is it worth it?

Also, when choosing conventional produce, Michelman said variety is more than just a spice of life.

“If I eat apples every day, and they’re not organic, every day I am exposing myself to that same pesticide,” Michelman said. “I eat spinach sometimes and cucumbers sometimes, and romaine sometimes, then yes, I am exposing myself to pesticides, but not the same one over and over.”

Laura said she understands the cost of organic can be prohibitive, which is part of the reason why the farm offers volunteer work opportunities trading labor for food.

“Hand-weeding is labor intensive,” Laura said.

But, she says, she sees change on the horizon.

“The more there is a demand for it and the better we get at being organic growers, the more that cost is starting to come down and be more available to more people,” Laura said.

Choosing organic produce often means eating food that’s in-season, though, it’s hard to tell what’s actually in-season since most produce can be found all year long in the grocery store. To help sort it all out, visit the Fruits and Veggies More Matters website.

Finally, Michelman says to also wash your produce.

“If I go to the grocery store and they’ve got an organic section and they’ve got the conventional section, well, some of that pesticide residue is in the air and so some of that is going to land on the organic produce,” Michelman said.